How to Cook Fresh Oyster Mushrooms
Getting the Most Out of These Increasingly Popular Gourmet Mushrooms
Nov 16, 2008
The oyster mushroom has a delicate aroma and flavour. It only takes a few seconds to cook which makes it an ideal ingredient for the busy cook.
Cleaning oyster mushrooms
Oyster mushrooms should not be peeled or washed. Instead it is better to brush them off or scrape gently with a knife. They can also be wiped clean using a damp cloth. Check the gill spaces for insects – this should not be a problem with cultivated mushrooms. If it is necessary to clean with water, use a minimum amount since this mushroom is naturally quite moist. In this case, swish them in cold water, drain immediately and gently press between a clean, dry cloth towel to remove excess liquid.
Preparing oyster mushrooms
Cut off any spoiled sections as well as the lower part of the stems of all oyster mushroom varieties, especially when using cultivated caps - to remove any remains of straw or wood. Since the stem is tougher, it is better to remove it and cook it first or to chop it up. Some prefer to discard it altogether.
Oyster mushrooms can be cooked whole or they can be cut into strips. They tear easily into strips or chunks, ready to be used in any dish where mushrooms would seem good.
Cooking fresh oyster mushrooms
Firm and flavourful oyster mushrooms need to be well-cooked. They make delicious accompaniment to meats. They can also be cooked and served alone or with other vegetables. These mushrooms have high moisture content and so will reduce down quite a lot when cooked.
There are various ways of cooking fresh oyster mushrooms. They can be cooked in a saucepan with or, preferably, without fat. Always start on low heat in order to ‘sweat’ them. When their cooking water has evaporated, they can then be braised or sautéed or added to stews. If preparing a dish that requires a long cooking time, put them in at the last stage. Once heated briefly in oil, they add character to soups or casseroles. Dishes that can be enhanced by oyster mushrooms include light creamy sauces, risottos and omelettes.
To fry the mushrooms from the beginning, heat a little oil in a frying pan and cook over a high heat for 4 to 5 minutes. To grill, preheat the grill; brush the mushrooms with olive oil and cook for 5 to 10 minutes. Oyster mushrooms can also be roasted or poached.
The young oyster mushroom is delicate in texture, aroma and flavour. It only takes a few seconds to cook which makes it an ideal ingredient for Chinese-style stir fried dishes. If you are using other fresh vegetables, add the mushrooms last as they require the least cooking.
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